The Origin of Craps
There is a bit of controversy as to the origin of our favorite game of craps. What we can observe about the history and origin of craps is that it seems to be closely tied to an ancient game called Hazard. Both games are tied to man's desire to challenge fate and roll the dice.
Though there is much debate regarding the origin of craps and its relation to Hazard, it is still interesting to know the interplay of the events that lead to the development of craps. Hazard is said to have been invented by Sir William of Tyre during the days of the crusades.
It is claimed that the game was invented in 1125 AD when crusaders were besieging a castle named Hazarth. Hazard was said to have come from the name of the castle. The game became popular in England and was mentioned frequently in the Canterbury Tales. For centuries, Hazard was played by the English and was even played in gambling houses.
The French caught on the game of Hazard and were said to have changed the name of the game to Craps. The losing throw of Hazard is called crabs (i.e. rolling a two) and it is believed that the French took the name Craps came from this losing throw.
Another interesting twist to tale of the origin of the name of craps relates to a Johnny Crapaud. Johnny Crapaud is a Frenchman who was given the term or nickname Crap which is the French for toad. This of course makes fun of the French for eating amphibians. This is, of course, another dead end when we investigate the origin of the name of craps since there are debates on the matter and we cannot really know for sure.
The next chapter of the history of craps concerns how the game got to America. With regard to this, some claim that the French brought the game to America. The view goes on to prove this point due to the fact that French settlers were displaced to the south by the British and eventually brought the game of craps with them. The British story goes to say that their settlers brought the game with them on the Mayflower.
When craps finally reached America, it became simplified into the one we know today. John H. Winn (a dice maker) added his mite to the game of craps. The players can now bet with or against the shooter.
In terms of money being wagered, craps certainly is the biggest casino game there is today. Have fun, and enjoy the action at the craps table.